On a Chinese Screen · Chapter
XXVI: Rain explained
The narrator contrasts the discomfort of a rainy journey in China with the cozy comforts of London life, reflecting on the pleasures of home, family, and leisure activities like reading, writing, and attending the theater.
What happens
The narrator contrasts the discomfort of a rainy journey in China with the cozy comforts of London life, reflecting on the pleasures of home, family, and leisure activities like reading, writing, and attending the theater.
Themes in this chapter
Colonial Ennui and Isolation
The narrator's vivid daydream of London comforts highlights the isolation and discomfort of life in China.
Beauty and Art as Escape or Illusion
The narrator escapes the dreary rain through thoughts of art, literature, and theater.
Characters to notice
- Elizabeth
The narrator's daughter, who comes to say goodbye in her white squirrel fur and later appears in pajamas before bed.
Key passages
“Yes, but the sun does not shine every day. Sometimes a cold rain beats down on you and a northeast wind chills you to the bone.”
The weather is not always pleasant; harsh rain and wind can make travel miserable.
Opening lines set the tone of discomfort and contrast with earlier idyllic scenes.
“Then you think of your pleasant room in London. The rain driving in squalls against the windows only makes its warmth more grateful.”
You imagine a cozy London room, where the rain outside enhances the comfort inside.
Highlights the narrator's longing for home and the comforts of Western life.
“I know then that Messrs. Knight, Frank, and Rutley are my favourite authors.”
The narrator humorously praises real estate agents as his preferred writers.
Satirical commentary on the escapism found in property advertisements.